Buprestis cupressi

Cypress jewel beetle

Description

Buprestis cupressi, commonly known as the cypress jewel beetle, is a pest primarily affecting trees in the family Cupressaceae, including Cedrus, Cupressus, Juniperus oxycedrus, and Platycladus. It is not a small beelte - the adult (imago) of Buprestis cupressi measures approximately 12–18 mm in length. It is considered oligophagous, feeding on a narrow range of host plants. The larvae develop under the bark, creating feeding galleries that disrupt the tree's vascular system. This activity weakens the tree, reduces its vitality, and can lead to branch dieback or tree mortality under severe infestations.

This species is distributed across southern and central Europe, where it is commonly found in regions with dry and warm climates. Adult beetles are dark, metallic and feed on bark and needles, causing minor damage to the tree’s appearance. However, larval feeding can lead to more severe aesthetic damage, such as bark cracks and resin leaks, impacting the overall health and appearance of affected trees. Heavy infestation can cause tree dieback.

Symptom

Infested trees show bark cracks and resin leaks. Beneath the bark, larval galleries filled with frass are visible, winding irregularly. Branches may exhibit localized dieback, and the bark may detach in severe cases. Dark beetlas on stem and many exit holes – D shaped.

Tree Species: Juniper, Thuja

Part of a plant- attacked: Tree trunk

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes